Daijiworld Media Network - Hubballi

Hubballi, Feb 28: BJP MP and former Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Friday lashed out at CM Siddaramaiah for opposing the Centre’s proposed delimitation process, alleging that he was trying to "cover up his own failures."

Speaking to reporters in Hubballi, Bommai termed Siddaramaiah’s stance as “unfortunate” and accused him of politicizing the issue. “Delimitation requires a two-thirds majority in Parliament and follows a constitutional process. PM Narendra Modi has assured that no state will be treated unfairly. Yet, Siddaramaiah is unnecessarily blaming the Centre to divert attention from his government’s failures,” he said.

Taking a dig at the Congress, Bommai claimed that during its rule, wealth was concentrated in the hands of politicians while the common people suffered. “Under Modi’s leadership, 25 crore people have moved out of poverty. Income tax collection has surged, with four lakh people now paying ?1 crore in tax compared to a handful during Congress rule. India’s GDP growth of 6.5% is unmatched globally,” he asserted.

Bommai also alleged that Karnataka was heading towards financial collapse, with no significant developmental work taking place. He further accused the state government of misusing funds meant for SC/ST welfare.

Meanwhile, CM Siddaramaiah, in a strong rebuttal, said discussions are already underway with neighboring southern states to jointly oppose the “injustices” of the proposed delimitation. He dismissed Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s assurance that the South would not be disadvantaged, calling it "untrustworthy" and aimed at misleading the people.

Citing studies on delimitation, Siddaramaiah warned that if the process is based on the latest census, Karnataka’s Lok Sabha seats may shrink from 28 to 26, while other southern states would also face reductions. "We will launch a coordinated movement with all affected states to safeguard our interests," he affirmed.